George W. Collins II ’59

George died March 12, 2013, of complications from pneumonia and flu.

Born in Waukegan, Ill., George came to Princeton from Waukegan Township High School. He had been preceded at Princeton by his grandfather, R.B. Jack 1894, and his brother, Jack ’52. George’s activities at Princeton included Whig-Clio, Chapel Choir, Glee Club, and University Band. He ate at Court Club.

A physics/astronomy major at Princeton, George received a Ph.D. in astronomy from the University of Wisconsin in 1962. He became an associate professor of astronomy at Ohio State University in 1963, and a full professor by 1971. In 1991, George left OSU as   professor emeritus, moved to Chesterland in northeastern Ohio, and took a part-time position as adjunct professor in astronomy at Case Western Reserve.

For all his life George was an advocate of wilderness and outdoor activities. He organized Canadian wilderness canoe trips for the Boy Scouts, and received Scouting’s esteemed Silver Beaver Award for his contributions to Scouting. He continued his interest in music with several choral groups, and took up the cause of global warming, on which he frequently lectured.

George was survived by Barbara, his wife of 51 years; and his children, Carol and Deirdre. We have sent condolences.